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Who: Sappho and Severus
Where: Charms Class (at first, anyway)
When: Wednesday, 16th January
What: Their first date

Surely she wasn't going to be late? Not today? Severus kept pulling his watch and checking the time. He had arrived inordinately early, of course, but he had expected Miss Duncannon to be early, as well. Or he hoped she would be. She had sped off from History of Magic with scarcely a glance in his direction, but seeing as every fifth year had that lesson together, perhaps she'd been feeling a bit shy. So did he, he had to admit, which was why he'd proposed walking her to lunch after Charms, instead of walking her to Charms after History of Magic. Considering how much nerve it took for her to write to him in the first place, however, he didn't want to keep her in suspense by delaying their first 'date' until they went to Hogsmeade the following Saturday.

Unfortunately, asking her on another date in the intervening time had proved problematic. When he'd written on Sunday, it was far too late to ask her out for Monday, since the school owls only made deliveries twice a day. She would have never received his reply in time. He might have even been cutting it a bit close for Tuesday. Not to mention, they had lessons with the Gryffindors all day on Tuesday. He could just see Potter or Black realising they were on a date and deciding to do something horrible to the both of them. Then again, the fact that they acted oblivious could also mean they were setting him up...

Shaking his head, Severus flicked open the last letter he'd written to her. He was being paranoid, though four and a half years dealing with being the butt of Potter and Black's jokes would make anyone paranoid. He gave the letter a quick once over, just to make certain he hadn't made any mistakes. Perhaps he ought to have written more, but he was far too nervous. In fact, he worried that she wouldn't be able to make out his writing as it was, as badly as his hand had been shaking. Once he had folded the parchment and checked his watch again, he looked up and his breath caught in his chest. Miss Duncannon had just entered the room, and she looked incredible.

She had certainly dressed for the occasion, which explained her hasty departure following History of Magic. At least he was fairly sure she hadn't been wearing that outfit earlier. And rather than looking as if she had no idea why he was staring at her, she was staring right back. So it wasn't a joke -- or at the very least, Potter and Black hadn't forged the letters. Severus exhaled the breath he hadn't even realised he was holding and smiled at her. Part of him couldn't believe it, and part of him -- the hopeful part that he usually repressed -- knew it was true.

Despite trying to get to class with several minutes to spare, Sappho was only a little early. Well, gussying up as much as she had that morning did take time. Severus had been reading what appeared to be one of their letters and didn't notice her at first. When he did look up, he stared at her for a moment, and then cracked a smile. She couldn't recall seeing him smile in all their previous time together at school. He would smirk and sneer on a regular basis, but had he ever truly smiled before? It made her feel quite special, which was, in itself, a rarity.

Her lips curled until they formed a wide grin. Most of her blood pooled in her cheeks. Her heart felt like a frog hopping about in her chest. As she walked up to him, Sappho feared she would pass out there on the classroom floor. Fortunately for everyone, she was able to stay on her feet. The task of speaking took most of her remaining strength. "Um, hello... Severus." She knew it was her voice that greeted him, but it sounded more like a mouse than a human.

Severus smiled again in acknowledgment of her greeting and then nodded toward the desk next to his. It occurred to him a second later that he probably ought to have stood up -- standing when a lady entered the room was the proper thing to do, wasn't it? But if he risked it now, in a rush to correct the gaffe, he would likely overturn his desk.

"Hello," he answered, finally, and a bit breathlessly. He became uncomfortably aware of the letter sitting conspicuously open on the desk in front of him and quickly folded the parchment again before handing it to her. "I know this isn't as exciting as delivery by owl, but I didn't want you to think I'd neglected to write a reply."

Sappho quickly sat down. It was just as well, as she knew swooning was inevitable if she didn't. She whispered her thanks and took the letter. Perhaps Severus hadn't meant for her to read it straight away, but she couldn't resist.

Miss Duncannon,

I think you are very pretty, though as you can probably tell, I don't have the courage to say that to you, so I've written it down instead. But your asking was certainly no imposition. Perhaps I will work up the nerve to say more in person.

Sincerely,

Severus

The words made Sappho gasp in delight. Her eyes grew misty. "Thank you, Severus. It's so sweet of you," she said. It took her a moment to realise her lisp returned in full force. In her embarrassment, she covered her mouth.

For a second or two, Severus tried to puzzle out what she had said, and then he realised why she had covered her mouth. She had a strong lisp, which explained -- in part -- why she had never succeeded in working up the nerve to talk to him before. Instead of emphasising the fact that she had just called him "Theveruth," however, he simply reached up and took hold of her wrist, pulling her hand away from her mouth.

"You have a very pretty smile," he said softly. "It would be a pity to cover it up."

His words, the touch of his hand, the fact that they were finally speaking face-to-face, it was all too much. Sappho's eyes sunk shut, and she made a whimpering squeak. "You're far too kind to me. I'm not worthy of your attention," she said in a quavering whisper. Her frame was trembling and her skin tightened with goose pimples.

"Why would you say that?" Severus asked, frowning. If anything, he wasn't worthy of her attention -- a pretty, rich, pureblood like her. He was still acutely aware of holding on to her wrist, and he wasn't quite sure if he ought to let go. She might take that as a rebuff, which he certainly didn't want, but the classroom was also filling up rather quickly, and he had no wish to get her into trouble with Professor Flitwick.

"Because it's true. I'm nothing special. I can't compete," she said, staring down at his hand as it clutched her wrist. All the other students filing in racked her nerves, but Sappho wouldn't have pulled away from him for the world. Severus was touching her. It was the greatest moment of her life thus far.

Severus shook his head, not quite following. He nearly asked, "Compete with whom?" when the answer occurred to him: Lily. Obviously, Miss Duncannon had seen them together and concluded they were a couple. And in truth, he did fancy Lily, but they were just friends. Clearing his throat, he shook his head again. "I wouldn't have asked you out if I thought you were nothing special. You've been very kind to me, and you're very pretty, as well." He shrugged. "So I think you're special, even if you disagree."

She half-smiled, finding herself caught somewhere between modesty and self-loathing. His words boosted her confidence, but she wasn't entirely sure she could believe what was happening. Sappho uttered a quiet thank you. Even when she heard the familiar sound of Flitwick's tiny footsteps entering the class, she still didn't reclaim her wrist or turn from Severus.

"We, ah, probably ought to pay attention now," Severus whispered, giving Sappho a small smile and patting her wrist before he turned in his chair to face the front of the room. Hopefully she wouldn't take that as a rejection. As much as he would have preferred to ignore their teacher and talk to her -- or skive off Charms completely -- they had OWLs coming up. And besides, it wasn't as if they wouldn't be able to talk freely again in an hour or so.

Sappho nodded and dared to focus on the lesson at hand. And though Charms seemed to go on forever, it was the best time she could remember having in Flitwick's class. Just knowing that Severus was in the desk beside her and that they would be going to lunch together afterward made her grin until her facial muscles ached.

The lesson probably could not have seemed any slower, even if time had been going in reverse. The up side, however, was that Severus had plenty of time in between note-taking to steal glances at Miss Duncannon. She really was pretty -- he certainly hadn't been fibbing about that -- as well as having a pretty smile. When the bell finally signalled the end of the lesson, he stood quickly, shoving his parchment and quill into his bag, which he slung over his shoulder. Then he turned toward her and smiled. "Ready?"

When Charms was over, she rushed to pack up her supplies, as well as the note Severus had given her. She resumed trembling and staring at him as he cleared his desk. Answering his inquiry with a rapid nod, she hopped to her feet. Sappho felt feverish, but she was quite certain she wasn't coming down with anything. It was only that all her blood now resided in her face.

"Would you like me to, ah, carry your books?" Severus asked with a small shrug. Never having walked a girl to lunch before -- or at least, not on a date -- he wasn't quite certain of the protocol. Though he seemed to recall Mam's having mentioned carrying books for a girl, once upon a time. His books were all in his bag now, after all, which left his arms relatively free. He might have to re-adjust his shoulder strap at some point, but he didn't think Miss Duncannon would mind having to stop and wait for a few seconds whilst he did that.

Then again ... "Wait a moment," he murmured, holding up a hand to stop her momentarily, and turned to the side. Severus proceeded to lengthen the strap on his bag, and once he had enough slack, he pulled the strap over his head. Now his bag would have no choice but to stay put. The strap couldn't migrate off his shoulder, no matter how heavy it was, and he could carry Miss Duncannon's -- Sappho's -- books with ease. He turned back to face her, smirking, and reached out to take hold of her things.

The look on his face made her knees wobble. "All right. As long as it's not too much trouble," she said, secreting her quill and inkbottle into a small, wooden case. Sappho set the case on a stack of books with parchments tucked between pages, handed the stack to Severus, and then stood beside him. She had hoped they might hold hands on the way to the Great Hall, or that she could loop her arm through one of his, but perhaps another time. Her shyness wouldn't have allowed her to reach out for his arm, anyway. "If they're too heavy, you don't have to, though it is awfully nice of you. Thanks."

"It's no trouble," Severus reassured her, his smirk now transforming into a small grin. He clutched the books and wooden case to his chest, wrapping both arms around them. He'd learnt the hard way to hold onto his books this way, or they'd go flying whenever Potter and Black succeeded in tripping him. In fact, that had been why he'd used the first of his proceeds from his sideline brewing business to purchase a satchel to carry his books. Then again, he normally rushed to get where he was going -- or at least didn't dawdle -- but today ... well, he was in no hurry. Nodding toward the classroom door, he quietly said, "After you."

She went out the door and waited for Severus to follow. Once he had joined her in the corridor, Sappho stood next to him again, close enough that their shoulders were almost touching. "You're awfully chivalrous. I don't think anyone has ever been so kind to me," she said. Her eyes drifted down to his hands as she imagined he was holding her to his chest, rather than her school things.

"So ... ah ... what lesson do you have after lunch?" he asked, rather than address Sappho's assertion that he was chivalrous, because -- quite frankly -- he didn't know what to say to that. He didn't think he was being awfully chivalrous. It was only carrying her books, after all. Then again, if what she'd said in her Legens was true, she was likely as accustomed to abuse as he was, so any kindness he showed her would be considered chivalrous. Any port in a storm...

"Divination," she said. "Too bad you dropped out of it. I would have liked to help you with the assignments." They began to walk to the Great Hall at a leisurely pace. Sappho's arm brushed against his, but she didn't move away. Had it been anyone else, she would have done so and apologised, but it was very different with Severus. It was pleasant and comforting to be so close to him.

"You would have been wasting your time," he said quietly, and he managed a smirk, despite the fact that the conversation had turned to one of his most glaring academic deficiencies. "I was utterly hopeless at Divination." Severus muttered a quiet apology when his arm bumped into Sappho's, but seeing as she hadn't moved away, he imagined she didn't really mind.

"I think you're too hard on yourself. I've yet to see you do anything that was less than brilliant," she said, gazing at his lips. Sappho wondered how much time was necessary for them to spend together before it was appropriate to kiss. She'd seen her father kiss women he hardly knew, but Severus seemed to be as reserved as she was. "Besides, you couldn't be as bad at it as I was at flying. Though you seem to remember that well enough... Hope you don't think less of me because of it."

"Of course not," Severus answered quickly, shaking his head. He neglected to remind her that he'd had a hard time of flying lessons early on, as well ... though that was most likely because somebody had cursed his broom. And had she just said he was brilliant? Well, she'd said something about his 'brilliance' in one of her letters, but it seemed more of a compliment in person. Grinning, he added, "I would certainly say that I was less than brilliant at Divination. I know when somebody has the gift -- my mother, for instance -- and I didn't." He shrugged slightly. "I think my best chance at prognostication is to master Arithmancy."

"Well, I can always tell your fortune for you, if you ever want to know it. It'd be my pleasure," she trilled. It was so exhilarating to be walking with Severus. Their arms touched again and her eyes sunk shut. Sappho let out a tiny whimper. How she wanted to put her head on his shoulder! If not for the strap of his book bag, she might have seriously considered trying.

"Thank you," Severus said quietly, still smiling. "I may take you up on that." He frowned a second later, however, when Sappho let out a whimper. "Are you all right?" he asked, even more quietly, leaning closer to her so that no one near them in the entrance hall would be likely to overhear.

Sappho sighed in ecstasy. He was close enough that she could have kissed him if she turned her head. "Yes, I'm all right. It's just so exciting to actually be with you," she whispered. "You're even more dishy up close." She pondered telling him that he smelt incredible as well, but decided not to. It might put him off to hear it, especially this soon.

Severus could have sworn every drop of blood he possessed had suddenly rushed to his cheeks, what with the way they were burning. Dishy. He would never have thought anyone in their right mind would apply that word to him. And yet, Sappho seemed perfectly sincere -- which obviously meant she was a nutter. But she was a nutter who was taken with him, wasn't she? Best not to look a gift thestral in the mouth.

"Ah ... thank you," he whispered, barely audibly, as they rounded the last corner to enter the Great Hall. He frowned then, at the benches surrounding the Slytherin table. If they had been having a proper meal, with tables and chairs, he was supposed to pull out her chair for her, but did one pull out a bench for a lady? He wasn't rightly sure. In the end, he decided to take his cue from her, and approached the table, setting her books down near two empty place settings.

She slid one leg at a time over the bench and under the table, and then looked at Severus as she waited for him to sit beside her. It was a tight squeeze, which was not at all a bad thing. Sappho was looking forward to their legs touching as they ate lunch. He was blushing as much as she was. That had to be a good sign. Maybe he was starting to fancy her already. "You're welcome, by the way," she breathed in his ear.

A shiver ran through him from head to foot when Sappho whispered in his ear. It was so distracting, in fact, that Severus realised he hadn't a clue what she had just said. To cover that fact, he simply answered with a nod. Then he cleared his throat and asked, rather awkwardly, "What were we discussing?" The last word came out as more of a squeak than a word, despite his voice's having changed the year before. Instead of acknowledging that noise as having issued from his own throat, he cleared it again and raised an eyebrow. "Besides my being dishy, that is." He attempted his patented smirk then, but he feared that he wasn't quite as successful as he would have liked.

When Severus shivered, Sappho couldn't help grinning. Another good sign. And his smirk, despite being a little weaker than usual, still provoked a bashful giggle. "Er, Divination. And how exciting it is to be spending time with you," she said, portioning out some food onto her plate. "Though I recall we planned to discuss what we'd do in Hogsmeade together. I've never gone there with someone else before. But then I've never walked through the corridors or had lunch with someone else before, either."

If she'd noticed the embarrassing squeak he had produced, Sappho hadn't let on, and Severus was incredibly grateful for that. When she mentioned not having had lunch with someone before, either, he was tempted to glance at the Gryffindor table, but he managed to suppress the urge.

"Right -- Hogsmeade," he said, trying not to frown. This was likely to be embarrassing, as well, since he couldn't normally afford anything from most of the shops, and he'd spent what little reserves of gold he'd managed to save on a new Legens. Though he did have one fairly strong opinion regarding where they ought to go -- or rather, ought not go -- so he thought he'd get that out of the way, right off. "I'd rather avoid Zonko's, if it's all the same to you. I find that their clientele leaves a great deal to be desired."

Sappho shook her head. "I have no desire to visit that establishment," she trilled. "It's far too low-brow for my taste. Their products and their clientele, to be precise. I had an inkling you would be too sophisticated for such rubbish, anyway." She knew who he was hinting at, but didn't want to kill the romance by discussing them in depth. Potter and his ilk were the height of unsophistication, just the opposite of Severus. "Besides, you hardly need novelties to improve your sense of humour. I daresay you're wittier than my papa."

Now that they were both seated, she allowed her leg to casually touch his. Raising a cup of tea to her lips, she smiled at him once more. "Whatever you'd like to do will be fine with me. I'll be happy just to go for a stroll through the village with you."

His cheeks were starting to burn again, after what Sappho said about his sense of humour. If the man's books were any indication, comparing his sense of humour to her father's was a great compliment indeed. Severus muttered another thank you, looking down at his plate. It was only then that he realised he hadn't yet served himself any food, but he had been a bit distracted.

He quickly spooned some steak and kidney pie onto his plate, and some mashed potatoes, and then began to shovel them into his mouth whilst trying to decide where they could go. After swallowing an overlarge bite, which he washed down with an equally large swig of pumpkin juice, he asked, "How about the Shrieking Shack? Have you ever been there?"

"Not really. I've walked past it, but that's all. Have you been there?" she asked between bites of food. "I've never found too much to do in Hogsmeade. Other than sneak behind the inn and pet the goats. You'd think they'd have a book shoppe, but no..." She watched Severus inhale his meal. It was endearing to Sappho because it reminded her of the way her father ate. "Is there anything you like to do there?"

"Not particularly," Severus answered between bites, with a small shrug, though he mentally added, Nothing too expensive. Trying not to scowl, he turned back to face his plate, wondering why a rich girl like Sappho would even want to go to Hogsmeade with him. He did scowl, however, when he realised that he wasn't being a very good date. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, he chided himself, and then straightened, clearing his throat once more. "Scrivenshaft's is rather nice," he ventured with another shrug, "if you like fancy quills and stationery. I've only ever bought rolls of parchment there." His eyebrows rose slightly when he further realised he hadn't answered her earlier question. "And no, I've never been to the Shrieking Shack, but it always sounded interesting enough."

"Fancy quills and such are nice, though I have plenty of stationery. But we can take a look," she said. "Right, then. We shall definitely visit the Shrieking Shack." Maybe they'd go inside Madam Puddifoot's also. It was a hideous place, but everyone snogged there. It would be worth the pink decor if he kissed her. "You still want to take me, don't you?" she asked in her most delicate tone, having noticed his expression turn sour.

Swallowing, Severus nodded quickly. "Yes, of course I do," he said, a little more loudly than he'd intended. He gave her a somewhat sheepish smile and shrugged again. "I was just thinking of something else -- sorry." Obviously, she'd taken his hesitation, or his expression, to mean he'd changed his mind, when nothing could be further from the truth, really. "I suppose we can also see what else there is to do, once we're there. I'm, ah, not all that familiar with the village, actually. I've really only been to Scrivenshaft's and Dervish and Banges."

She returned his smile, feeling relieved. For a moment, she had suspected he was growing bored with her. "Neither am I, in truth. I much prefer Knockturn Alley. Do you ever go there?" Sappho looked down at his leg where it was grazing hers. Ever so slightly, she moved her leg closer and sighed. Was there anything as wonderful as physical contact with Severus? She highly doubted it.

"Not lately," Severus answered, frowning again, although this time it was obviously in thought. "My mother and I used to go there a great deal when I was younger, but..." He trailed off, to stop himself from saying what he was about to: that they couldn't really afford it any longer. Not since his father had started drinking so much and working so little. "Not lately," he said finally, unable to think of any better way to phrase it. "How often do you go there?"

He noticed that she sighed, and then that her leg was now leaning up against his leg, and ... that it was nice. Both her leg, and the fact that it was touching his. "Ah ... are you planning to change before Herbology? Because I daresay you'll be frozen to the core if you have to trek all the way to Greenhouse 3 in that skirt." Once he'd realised what he said, his face started to burn again, and he quickly shook his head and added, "Not that it isn't a nice skirt." It wasn't immodest -- just knee-length -- but he thought belatedly that she might not take too kindly to his critiquing her wardrobe.

Sappho shrugged her shoulders. "I hadn't thought about it, but I could change during break. If you don't mind waiting in the Common room for me, that is," she replied. "I mean, if you want to spend the break with me and walk me to Herbology, too. I won't force you. But I'd like it... Would you like to?" She quickly stuffed a spoonful of potatoes in her mouth before she prattled on any further.

At first, Severus shook his head to indicate that he didn't mind waiting whilst she changed. But then she asked if he would like to walk her to Herbology, and nodded quickly, since his mouth was full. Once he'd swallowed -- which was a tad uncomfortable, because it had been another rather large bite -- he said, "I would like to walk you to Herbology, and I don't mind waiting when you change, in case you may have misinterpreted my head's lolling about just now." He gave her a small smile, and then repeated his earlier question. "So, how often do you go to Knockturn Alley?"

When Severus mentioned lolling his head about, Sappho couldn't help giving a small chortle. She then realised she had completely forgotten to respond when he asked her that same question earlier, so she quickly answered it this time around. "Oh, I go there a couple of times during the summer. I tag along when Papa has business there or take the Knight Bus and make a day of it on my own. Maybe we could go together next summer. That would be nice," she sighed sweetly. "I'm sure it'd be much more fun with you. Lunch is certainly more enjoyable with you. Perhaps we could make this a regular thing?" Searching his face, she prayed his next words would be affirmative.

"I'd like that," Severus answered with another nod and a small smile, and he was a bit surprised to find that he truly meant it. He was not having to pretend to enjoy spending time with Sappho. Apparently she'd been correct: they did have a lot in common, even down to liking Knockturn Alley. That was something Lily would never understand. It wasn't about some nefarious wish to harm people, or even a desire to be "evil." He simply wanted to know, because knowledge was power. How could one truly defend against the Dark Arts without understanding them, inside and out?

Severus was also a bit surprised to find that he and Sappho had just made a date for the following summer, with little to no effort. Was dating somebody supposed to feel this natural? From the conversations his dorm-mates had had that he'd overheard, he didn't think so. They were always on about sweaty palms and cracking voices and the like. And while it was true that his voice had broken earlier, it wasn't every day a girl whispered in his ear like that ... In fact, including today, the sum total of such occurrences came to one.

Sappho squeaked when he answered. "And would you like to have lunch with me everyday, too? And walk to class together?" she asked with an excited grin. She could barely sit still. Thoughts of spending every free moment with Severus filled her brain. Even waiting outside his Arithmancy class sounded fun.

At first, Severus thought of raising his eyebrow and saying, in a sardonic tone, "We'll see," but he feared Sappho might take that the wrong way. She would likely find his sarcasm a great deal less enjoyable when directed at her. "I don't see why not." He shrugged then and smiled, and before he even realised he was speaking again, added, "We could probably do our homework together in the common room or library, as well."

Sappho clasped her hands together over her heart and gasped. "I'd love that!" she lilted. "Spending time with you is even better than I imagined." She suddenly thought about leaning over to try to kiss him, but stopped herself. It was still very early in their relationship and as much she was anxious for their first kiss to take place, she didn't want to put Severus off. "We do have a Potions essay to work on and we could share a reference book during it. That would be nice."

"Or several reference books, knowing me," Severus said, smirking. He suddenly noticed movement all around them. People were scooting back their benches and getting up to leave the Great Hall. Was lunch over already? Where had the time gone? "Ah ... it's looks like we'll have to get going, if you want to make it to Divination on time." He stood up, but not too quickly, so as not to topple their bench over, and pulled the strap of his bag over his neck again. Then he leant down to pick up Sappho's books and waited for her to stand. "Shall we?"

"Very well," she said whilst getting to her feet. "So what will you be doing whilst I'm in class?" Sappho walked as closely to him as she had earlier. The top of the North Tower was a quite a trek from the Great Hall, and she intended to make the most of it. The heat from his body was indeed a treat. She sighed with delight for what must have been the tenth time that day.

Severus shrugged. "I'll probably go to the library. I have to re-copy the end of my Herbology essay before class, because I left out some of the lesser-known properties of aconite." He smirked a little, rather proud of himself for finding them, actually. "I doubt Professor Sprout will be able to appreciate them all, since they relate mostly to potion-making, but I thought I ought to include them anyway, in the interest of completeness." He frowned a little then, wondering if he was bragging a bit too much. Well, Sappho seemed to be a good brewer herself, so she likely would appreciate the properties, even if Professor Sprout wouldn't.

She giggled at that. "Oh Severus, you're so clever! I bet you're smarter than all our professors combined!" Sappho suddenly began to wonder how a genius like him could stand a silly girl like her. "So... Have you been enjoying my company? I mean, you still don't hate me, right?" she murmured, staring down at her feet.

"Even smarter than Dumbledore?" Severus asked, raising an eyebrow and smirking. "Because that is quite a compliment. And no, I still don't hate you. Trust me -- you'd know if I hated you. I'm not very good at hiding that sort of thing." Clearing his throat, he added, more quietly, "And I am enjoying your company very much. Are you enjoying mine?" Well, he probably didn't need to ask, since she'd said as much earlier, but the question just slipped out before he could stop himself.

"Much smarter than Dumbledore! Maybe even smarter than Papa," she trilled. Sappho looked back and forth, from his eyes to his lips. He was so incredibly handsome, she wished she could kiss him. Or at least hug him. "I am enjoying your company. More than I can say."

Severus was momentarily confused, because he could have sworn Sappho was staring at his mouth. Did he have something stuck in his teeth? But a second later, she was looking him in the eye again, so he dismissed it as only his imagination. "Smarter than your father?" he asked, trying not to sound too sceptical. "Somehow I doubt that. I don't even have a single book to my credit. Well, not yet, anyway," he added with a smirk.

Sappho giggled again. When he smirked at her, it felt as if she were being tickled by invisible hands. "Ay, I'm sure you'll have plenty of titles to your credit by the time you're his age. He is in his fifties now, you know. Still, I think you could give him a run for his Galleons."

Severus shook his head, trying not to grin too broadly. "If you keep saying things like that," he answered, turning his head to grin down at her, "you're going to give me a head as swollen as Potter's." He was mostly teasing, of course, but he had to admit that it was nice to have somebody compliment him, instead of... Well, he wouldn't say Lily critiqued him, exactly, but she did seem to find fault with him an awful lot.

She grabbed onto the rail as they ascended the first staircase. "If you should develop a swollen head, you would be justified in it. Potter has no reason to act like that. Aside from being good at Quidditch, what does he have to show for himself? That he doesn't comb his hair? Or that he and his toadies can gang up on people? That's something to write home about!" Sappho scoffed. "He and Sirius Black were simply born bad. There's no other explanation for it. I truly pity their families."

Well, he's rich, and everybody seems to like him, for some unfathomable reason, Severus thought, scowling, but he shook that thought off, and by the time he turned back to face Sappho, he managed to smile. At least she wasn't fooled. She didn't view Potter and Black through the rose-coloured spectacles that seemed to be standard issue at this school. For that alone, he could have kissed her -- then and there -- but somehow he managed to control himself. He didn't think he'd care to get slapped this early on in their relationship.

"You have a lovely smile, you know," she breathed. Sappho let her shoulder touch his again. Hopefully, they would both unload their un-needed books during break. Then Severus might just hold her hand on the way to Herbology. She could hardly wait. For the first time in her life, she wasn't looking forward to Divination.

"Thank you," he said, flushing a little at yet another compliment. "Though now I think about it, you probably have yourself to thank for that, as well, since I don't usually smile this much." The trip may have seemed like a long one when they set out from the Great Hall, but all too soon, they had reached the last staircase and the top of North Tower. Severus suddenly didn't want to leave. He wondered just how uncomfortable he'd be if he simply sat down on the floor below the classroom and recopied his essay here, instead of going back to the library. Frowning, he studied the flagstone. Perhaps if he folded up his cloak and sat on that instead of the floor, or ... well, he might be able to find an unused classroom nearby.

Sappho was so touched that she gasped and mewled in rapid succession. "Really? That's so sweet! I can't tell you what a boost that is to my self-esteem. You make me feel important, like I'm a good person." She stole a brief glance at the entrance to the Divination classroom. "I suppose I have to say good-bye until 2:15 now... Unless you wish to encourage me to skive off my lesson?" With a half-hearted chortle, she held out her hands to take back her school things.

There was so much he wanted to say in response to that -- that Sappho was a good person, and that she was important -- but unfortunately, he didn't have the time. Instead, he merely answered her final question. "As tempting as that sounds ... no. You ought to go to class." After glancing up at the trapdoor, he gave her a mock-stern look, raising an eyebrow, and then handed back her things. He was also tempted to stay at the bottom of the ladder and watch as she climbed up to the Divination classroom, but somehow he thought Sappho wouldn't hold him in such high regard if she caught him trying to look up her skirt.

A shiver rushed up her spine. Something about him being authoritative made her insides turn to mush. Only the rush of other pupils beating her to Professor Osbourne's room urged Sappho to return to her senses. "Very well, I'll be good. So shall I meet you in the library or the Common room?" she asked while preparing to climb up to the next floor and join her classmates.

"I'll meet you here," Severus said, smirking. "I'm sure I can find someplace nearby to settle myself and recopy my essay." He wondered for a second if he could perhaps sneak into Divination with her, but he quickly dismissed that notion. Professor Osbourne was second only to McGonagall in spotting troublemakers. Pity, because those poufs and squishy armchairs in the Divination classroom were a damn sight more comfortable than sprawling on the stone floor.

She smiled at him. "That's so sweet," she sighed. "Very well, I'll see you here after class." Sappho waved, and then got up on the ladder. Their little date had been going quite well so far. It was a shame to have to leave him, even if it was only for seventy-five minutes.

Severus watched as Sappho climbed the ladder, trying not to look up her skirt -- or at least, not too obviously, though he did catch a tantalising glimpse of suspenders as she reached the top rung. Once she had closed the trapdoor behind her, he gave a contented sigh and wandered off to find an empty classroom. Though he didn't locate a classroom, as such, he found a storage room with a table and chair, which would do. Severus proceeded to recopy the last page of his Herbology essay, but it was slow going because thoughts of Sappho kept interrupting his concentration. Before he knew it, the bell rang to signal the end of class, and he was on his feet within seconds, stowing his parchment, quill, and inkbottle in his bag.

Before she even stepped onto the ladder, Sappho caught a glimpse of Severus through the trapdoor, rushing over to greet her. She waved at him, and then descended as quickly as she could without falling straight down. "Guess we should hurry down to the dungeons now so I can change my skirt?" she whispered. "Maybe put away some of ours books, too. That way you won't have to carry so much. I feel a little guilty with you carrying all my things."

"It's no trouble," Severus answered, shaking his head. And then it struck him that he was being incredibly stupid. If he weren't carrying Sappho's books and things, he might be able to hold her hand. Or was it too soon for that? "But I -- ah -- certainly wouldn't want you to feel guilty," he added with a shrug, grasping at the first excuse he could think of for dropping off her things, since he had already assured her that he didn't mind.

"Well, we only have two classes left today and we only need a textbook for Ancient Runes... So it seems reasonable enough to drop off the rest of them." She flashed him a smile as they started down the stairs. "Were you able to find a good place to finish up your essay?"

"Good enough," he answered, returning her smile. "A table and chair in a storeroom." It was really very sweet of her -- not only to worry about his carrying her things, but also to ask if he'd found a suitable place to re-copy his essay. They walked most of the way to the dungeon in silence, but it was a nice, companionable silence, rather than an awkward one. Of course, Severus kept thinking about how Sappho would soon be changing her skirt, and he was afraid if he did talk, something along those lines would be the first thing out of his mouth. In view of that, he thought it best to keep his mouth firmly shut.

They were now on the ground floor and crossing the entrance hall, toward the dungeons. Sappho looked off to the side, too bashful to make eye contact. She had something to ask him that was rather worrisome. "So... Do you want to spend the rest of the day with me?" she mumbled, although she wasn't sure where she got the courage to finally ask. She had thought lunch went well, but she couldn't be sure Severus agreed.

"Well..." Severus began, smirking at the troubled expression on Sappho's face. Perhaps it was wrong of him, but he found that he really couldn't resist making a joke. "Seeing as we have the same schedule for the rest of the afternoon anyway, it's rather difficult to avoid, isn't it?" Then again, she might not find the suspense all that amusing. "In light of that, I have a counter-proposal: would you like to have dinner me with this evening?" Outside the Slytherin common room, he muttered the password ("Basilisk"), and stood back, waiting for Sappho to enter first.

"I'd love to," Sappho whispered breathlessly before stepping inside the common room. "I promise to be as quick as I can," she said whilst taking back her books, though it may not have been loud enough for Severus to hear. She looked back at him over her shoulder as she sped off in the direction of her dorm room.

By the time she reached the trunk at the foot of her bed, Sappho was panting. She tossed her school things unceremoniously on the coverlet, nearly in a panic whilst trying to decide on a full-length skirt to change into. In time, she opted for one of purple velvet. It was the most comfortable and looked the nicest, even if it was a bit too fancy for the greenhouse. She pulled it up over her shorter skirt, removing the latter afterward. It was a trick the girls used to keep their knickers hidden from their dorm-mates.

As she turned the doorknob to leave, a cold chill washed over her. What if he'd ditched her while she was dressing? Perhaps Severus was didn't want to tell her that she was a disappointment and having her change clothes was a mere ruse so he could make an escape without confrontation. Sappho gulped hard. She nearly fainted when she stepped out to find him still there, waiting for her.

Severus had just finished fastening his cloak when Sappho reappeared in the common room. His eyebrows rose upon taking in her choice of clothing. "That's -- ah -- very purple," he said, wanting to slap himself not two seconds afterward. What he'd meant, of course, was "Isn't that skirt a little fancy for Herbology?" but something got all fouled up in between his brain and his mouth. Though seeing as she'd already changed once today at his request, he thought it best not to press his luck. Blushing slightly, he nodded toward the common room door. "Shall we?"

"Do you not like it?" she asked. Sappho chewed on her lower lip. She preferred dresses to long skirts -- they weren't as frumpy -- but she simply didn't have the time to change her entire outfit. "It was the first one I could find... But if you don't like purple, I won't wear it again." Purple was one of her favourite colours. Giving it up all together would be a big sacrifice for her, but it would be a fair trade if it kept Severus around. When it came down to it, there probably wasn't a single thing she wouldn't be willing to give up for him. He was that important to her. This time with him made her feel like she had found her purpose in life.

"No, it's fine," Severus answered quickly, shaking his head. "What I meant to say was that it might be a little too nice to wear whilst re-potting Screechsnap seedlings. But if you like, you can lay my cloak across your lap, so it won't get covered in dragon manure." He hadn't actually meant to say all that, but somehow the words had just come out, and a lot more easily than when he'd mucked things up earlier. Severus also smirked, though a little shyly, when he realised that he'd just performed the Herbological equivalent of spreading his cloak over a puddle for Sappho to walk across.

She smiled demurely in response to his gallant offer. It was most kind of him, but Sappho thought she'd rather muck up her skirt than his cloak. The guilt would tear her apart if she had allowed that. "Oh, that's all right. I can use a charm to clean it and any stains should come out fine in the wash. But thank you nonetheless. You're a perfect gentleman," she said.

"Ah ... thank you," Severus whispered, not really certain what the proper response was. He'd certainly never been called a perfect gentleman before, so he'd never had to ponder the question. They started down the marble staircase and across the sloping lawn, with snow crunching underfoot to punctuate their every step. Most of the students in their Herbology class had a good head start, since they likely hadn't stopped to change clothes, but Severus didn't care. Even if they weren't exactly saying anything he would mind being overheard, he rather liked having a bit of privacy.

He wondered idly if a perfect gentleman ought to have offered her his arm for the journey -- at the very least to keep Sappho from losing her footing and stumbling in the snow -- but no sooner had he thought that than the back of his hand brushed up against hers. The next thing he knew, their fingers had somehow become interlaced. Not that he minded that, either. In fact, he grinned from ear to ear, casting a sidelong glance at her to see if she was pleased to be holding hands, as well -- even if he couldn't feel her hand as well as he would have liked due to the cold.

Sappho started to tremble again. He was holding hands with her! She bit her tongue to stop herself from squealing like a deranged animal. Returning the grin, she gave his hand a light caress with the tip of her thumb. She couldn't tell it was cold outside, for she was warm all over. In fact, her cheeks were on fire. Professor Sprout might end up prying their hands apart, for she was determined not to let go.

When they reached Greenhouse 3, Severus opened the door with his free hand and only let go of Sappho's hand reluctantly to allow her to go inside. He wasn't entirely sure if it was his imagination, but everyone seemed to be staring at them. They'd arrived just in time for the lesson to begin, so it wasn't tardiness. Were they just that surprised that he'd be on a date with such a pretty girl? Glaring around the room at everyone -- even Professor Sprout -- Severus guided Sappho over to an empty table with his hand on her back, and he continued to glare as they took their seats. It was one thing for people to stare or even outright mock him. He was used to it. But when their disdain bled over into the company he was keeping ... well, he wasn't going to stand for it.

Letting go of his hand made her feel the cold. Sappho let out a weary sigh. Herbology was a fun class for her, but she was too distracted to care about it today. She was glad they could share a table, though. Sitting next to him in Charms had eased the anxiety she usually felt during Flitwick's lessons. It was bound to have the same effect here in Greenhouse 3, she figured.

Professor Sprout asked them to pass their essays up to the front. Sappho had left hers with Severus before going to change, but she hadn't seen what he'd done with it. Presumably, it was with his, in his satchel. Waiting for him to retrieve it, she recalled what he had told her earlier. He'd added to his essay information on some arcane potion-making properties of aconite. It had piqued her curiosity. She would have to ask about it later on.

Still glaring around at various people, Severus removed his bag from his shoulder, set it in his lap, and fished out the two rolls of parchment that contained his and Sappho's essays. He handed both essays to a Ravenclaw boy at the next table and watched carefully until the rolls made their way to Professor Sprout at the front of the greenhouse. Only when their work was safely in the teacher's hands did he turn back to Sappho and smile again. "Do you think we can re-pot Screechsnap seedlings one-handed?" he whispered, reaching for her hand again under the table.

"We can try," she whispered whilst trying not to giggle, in case Sprout was listening. Their Herbology professor was easy-going more often than not, but there were times when she would give students a stern talking-to. Sappho didn't want to take any chances, given the situation. She could handle being castigated, but she didn't want to see Severus getting in any sort of trouble, particularly if it was on her account. Under the table, she gave his hand a light squeeze. "Or we can at least hold hands between the various tasks."

He was about to answer her when Professor Sprout cleared her throat rather sharply from the other end of the greenhouse. Severus straightened in his chair then and nodded toward their teacher, though he squeezed Sappho's hand, as well. He didn't think he should risk saying that they ought to pay attention again, since Sprout had already made her opinion of their whispering at the back of the room abundantly clear. Though the smell of dragon manure was already invading his nostrils, he doubted he was never going to enjoy a Herbology lesson more than today's.

[OOC: I know this seems kind of quick, as far as hook-ups go. If there's one thing I know about nerd boys like Snape, however, it's that when they find a girl who is interested in them, they have a tendency to latch on with both hands. ;-)]